Explore our in-depth resources by topic and find the information you need.
Cutting, bending, welding and assembly processes.
CNC machining, milling, turning and best practices.
Design and manufacturing of metal enclosures.
Metals, alloys and material selection guides.
Surface treatment, coating and finishing options.
Design for manufacturability tips and guidelines.
Real-world applications across different industries.
In-depth guides to help you make better design and manufacturing decisions.
For most projects, aluminum is the better choice due to its lower cost, easier machinability, and lighter weight. However, titanium excels in high-strength applications requiring corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. Your specific project requirements will determine which metal is best suited for your needs.
Laser marking is a process that uses a focused laser beam to create marks on a material’s surface. The laser changes the material’s color or texture, leaving text, logos, or codes behind. It’s fast, clean, and doesn’t require inks or chemicals. This makes it ideal for industries that need durable, high-quality markings. Laser marking is non-contact, meaning the material has no physical wear. The marks are also resistant to fading, scratching, and heat.
Brass drilling differs from other metals because of its unique properties. It’s softer than steel but harder than aluminum, requiring different speeds and feeds. The zinc content in brass creates challenges with chip formation and tool sticking. The correct drill bits, speeds, and lubricants will help you avoid common problems and produce clean, accurate holes.
Mill finish aluminum is the raw, untreated metal directly from the extrusion or rolling process. It features a natural, matte, or semi-bright appearance with visible manufacturing lines. This cost-effective, functional finish is ideal for industrial components, structural framing, and hidden parts where durability and economy outweigh aesthetic perfection.
Bead-blasted stainless steel is a finish achieved by propelling small glass beads at high speed onto the metal surface. This process creates a smooth, matte texture that reduces reflectivity and hides imperfections like scratches or fingerprints. It’s a popular choice for applications where both durability and appearance matter.
Bead blasting works by shooting tiny glass or ceramic beads through a nozzle at high pressure. The beads hit the metal surface and remove a thin layer of material, creating a smooth, even texture throughout.
Fasteners come in many shapes and sizes, each serving a different purpose. To choose the correct fastener, consider material, load requirements, environmental conditions, and ease of assembly. The key is to match the fastener’s characteristics to the needs of your project.
Rapid Prototype casting is a time-saving, versatile method of creating metal prototypes. This method combines 3D printing with traditional casting techniques, allowing designers to quickly convert digital models into physical components, perfect for functional testing and design verification.
UV printing on metal is a digital printing method that uses ultraviolet light to cure specially formulated ink. The printer sprays the ink directly onto the surface. Then, UV lamps follow immediately to harden the ink. This fast curing process keeps the ink from spreading or soaking into the material.
Chamfer and bevel refer to angled cuts on the edges of materials, but there are key differences. A chamfer is typically a straight cut at a 45-degree angle, often used to remove sharp edges and improve safety or aesthetics. Conversely, a bevel can be any angle other than 90 degrees, offering more versatility for various design needs.
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